Legend Synopsis & Review: Plot Summary

🎯 Quick Overview

😅 Plot Summary – Badly Explained

Two identical gangster twins try to rule London while one tries to get married and the other refuses to take his meds, eventually ruining everything for everyone.

🍿 Legend: Detailed Plot Synopsis

Introduction to the Kray Twins

The film opens in 1960s London, introducing us to Reggie Kray, a charismatic gangster striving for legitimacy, and his twin brother Ronnie, a volatile and openly homosexual psychopath. Reggie is portrayed as the brains of the operation, running nightclubs and managing their criminal enterprise, while Ronnie’s unpredictable behavior constantly threatens their empire. Reggie is romantically involved with Frances Shea who serves as narrator.

Rise to Power and Criminal Activities

The Kray twins expand their influence in London’s underworld, engaging in protection rackets, money laundering, and violent confrontations with rival gangs, most notably the Richardson gang. Reggie attempts to balance his criminal activities with a desire for a legitimate business, acquiring a casino with the help of their lawyer, Leslie Payne. Ronnie’s erratic actions and open disdain for legitimacy cause friction between the brothers.

Reggie and Frances’ Relationship

Reggie’s relationship with Frances deepens, leading to their marriage. However, their happiness is short-lived as Frances struggles to cope with Reggie’s involvement in crime and Ronnie’s negative influence. Her mental health deteriorates as she becomes increasingly isolated and dependent on drugs. Their marriage is further strained by interference from Ronnie and Reggie’s continued engagement with criminal activity.

The Downfall Begins

Ronnie’s recklessness escalates when he murders a rival gangster in public, drawing unwanted attention from the police. Detective Nipper Read, now at Scotland Yard, intensifies his efforts to bring down the Krays. Frances, unable to bear Reggie’s lifestyle any longer, leaves him and ultimately commits suicide, devastating Reggie.

Betrayal and Arrest

Ronnie, distrusting Leslie Payne, orders his assassination but the attempt fails. Payne, seeking protection, turns informant and provides crucial evidence to the police. Reggie, in a fit of rage, murders Jack McVitie, a close associate, solidifying the case against the Krays. The film concludes with their arrest and conviction, marking the end of their reign.

⚠️ Spoilers and Ending Explained

🎬 Cast & Characters

• Reggie Kray (Tom Hardy): One half of the Kray twins, Reggie is a charismatic gangster attempting to balance his criminal empire with a desire for legitimacy and love.
• Ronnie Kray (Tom Hardy): The volatile and openly homosexual twin of Reggie, Ronnie embraces violence and disrupts Reggie’s attempts at legitimate business.
• Frances Shea (Emily Browning): Reggie’s wife, Frances is a local girl who is drawn to his charm but ultimately destroyed by the criminal world he inhabits.
• Nipper Read (Christopher Eccleston): A determined detective, Nipper Read is committed to bringing down the Kray twins and their criminal empire.
• Mad Teddy Smith (Taron Egerton): A member of the Krays’ inner circle, Mad Teddy Smith is known for his erratic behavior.
• Leslie Payne (David Thewlis): The Krays’ lawyer, Leslie Payne helps them manage their business affairs but becomes a target of Ronnie’s paranoia.

💬 Memorable Quotes

• Ronnie Kray: “I’m a homosexual, and also a psychotic. But I’m not a pervert.” – Ronnie matter-of-factly declares his sexuality and mental state to Frances, establishing his blunt and unpredictable character.
• Reggie Kray: “You know, me and my brother, we’re going to rule London.” – Reggie states his ambitions, encapsulating the Krays’ desire for power and control over the city.
• Ronnie Kray: “Why would you do that?” – Ronnie is confused and upset by Reggies betrayal.
• Reggie Kray: “Because I CAN’T KILL YOU! No matter how much I f****** want to!” – Reggie yells at Ronnie as he expresses his love and hate for his brother.

💰Box Office

• Budget: $30,000,000
• Domestic Gross: $1,872,994
• Worldwide Gross: $42,972,994

💥 Legend Reviews

Personal Review

I went in expecting a straight-up gangster movie, but ‘Legend’ surprised me. Tom Hardy is incredible as both Reggie and Ronnie – it’s almost like watching two different actors. The scenes between them were electric! I really felt for Frances, even though I knew it wouldn’t end well. It’s not perfect, but definitely worth watching for Hardy’s performance alone. The soundtrack is awesome too.

• Who would enjoy:
  • “Fans of gangster films”
  • “Tom Hardy fans”
  • “Viewers interested in British history and true crime”
  • “Those who enjoy films with complex character studies”
• Content warnings ⚠:
  • “Graphic violence”
  • “Drug use”
  • “Strong language”
  • “Sexual content”
  • “Suicide”

Professional Reviews

• Empire Magazine: “Tom Hardy’s dual performance is mesmerizing, and the film captures the stylish grit of 1960s London. While it occasionally veers into glorification, it’s a captivating gangster tale.
• The Guardian: “Hardy’s portrayal of both Kray twins is undoubtedly the highlight, but the film struggles with tonal consistency, bouncing between romance, violence, and dark humor. Ultimately, it’s a stylish but flawed biopic.
• Variety: “Legend rests heavily on Hardy’s shoulders, and he delivers in spades. However, the film’s structure feels episodic, and the supporting characters lack depth, leaving it feeling like a missed opportunity.

Audience Reactions

Tom Hardy’s acting as both twins is phenomenal and makes the movie worth watching.: Viewers were impressed by Tom Hardy’s dual performance and the depiction of the Kray twins’ complex relationship.

The dark humor and shocking violence create a unique and memorable viewing experience.: Audiences appreciated the film’s blend of gangster violence with moments of levity and dark comedy.

Overall Consensus: Legend is a stylish gangster biopic elevated by Tom Hardy’s exceptional performance, although some find its tonal shifts and narrative structure uneven.

Awards

🛠️ Behind the Scenes

• “Tom Hardy had only 35 shooting days to film both roles, often transforming between Reggie and Ronnie multiple times in a single day.”
• “The film aims for a stylized rather than strictly realistic depiction of the 1960s London underworld.”

🖥️ How to Watch Legend?

Legend is available for streaming on various platforms. You can find it for rent or purchase on Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play Movies, and Vudu. Check your local listings for availability as streaming options may vary by region. Unfortunately it is not streaming free on any service and requires purchase or rental.

🎥 Similar Movies

If you enjoyed Legend, you might like these similar films:

• The Krays (1990): A direct comparison, another biopic about the Kray twins, offering a different perspective on their lives and crimes.
• Rise of the Footsoldier (2007): Another brutal British crime film depicting the Essex Boys, offering a similar look at the violent underworld of British gangs.
• Brighton Rock (2010): Era-specific alternative, explores crime and violence in a gritty British setting, reminiscent of the Krays’ London.
• Peaky Blinders (TV Series, 2013-2022): Modern equivalent, captures the atmosphere of British gangsters in the early 20th century with complex family dynamics and brutal violence.
• Layer Cake (2004): A stylish British crime thriller with a focus on complex characters and a captivating storyline.

🛒 Legend Related Products

• Legend [Blu-ray]: Own the movie on Blu-ray and experience Tom Hardy’s mesmerizing dual performance in stunning high definition. Features exclusive behind-the-scenes content and interviews.
• The Kray Twins: A Legend of Violence: John Pearson’s definitive biography delves into the real lives of Reggie and Ronnie Kray. Updated Edition.
• 1960s London Gangster Style Suit: Channel your inner Reggie Kray with a sharp 1960s-inspired suit, perfect for themed parties or adding a touch of vintage style to your wardrobe. Available in various sizes and colors.
• Keep Calm and Let The Krays Handle It – Poster: High-quality poster featuring a humorous and dark motivational phrase with a Kray Twins-inspired twist. A unique addition to any fan’s collection.

🎧 Soundtrack

Legend features a captivating soundtrack that enhances the movie’s atmosphere and emotional impact. Here are some notable tracks:

• “Green Onions” – performed by Booker T. & the M.G.’s
• “I’m Into Something Good” – performed by Herman’s Hermits
• “Tea for Two” – performed by Teddy Wilson & His All-Stars

You can find the complete soundtrack on Amazon Music and Apple Music.

🤨 FAQ

🔥 Bonus Content

10 Things You Didn’t Know About Legend

Curious about what went on behind the scenes of the captivating movie ‘Legend’? This video reveals 10 fascinating facts that will leave you with a fresh perspective on the film.

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